Manufacturer Relationships
When a solution doesn’t exist, let’s create one.
At Model 1, we thrive on finding creative solutions to our customers’ toughest challenges. And where they don’t exist, we help create them. By gaining a deeper understanding of those challenges, we go all the way back to the manufacturer level to solve them. From product creation to widespread distribution, it’s through these manufacturer relationships that we all move the industry in the right direction: forward.
Model 1 and FOREST RIVER
quality manufacturing meets leading after-sales support
Right from the start in 2008, it was clear that a partnership between Model 1 and Forest River would give customers big advantages. Forest River’s unparalleled production capacity allows them to fill customer orders for everything from Class A motorhomes to commercial buses, quickly and without cutting corners. And buying Forest River vehicles through Model 1 means access to the best pricing and after-sales support network.
Model 1 and BRAUNABILITY
INNOVATION IN THE WORLD OF ACCESSIBILITY
When it comes to helping customers solve for accessibility, our decades-long partnership with BraunAbility is indispensable. BraunAbility is far and away the best-in-class supplier for both wheelchair lifts and low-floor accessible minivans. Like all of our key partners their vehicles are built the right way, at a reasonable price, with a standard for quality that’s unmatched in the minivan modification business. Together we’ve created and brought to market innovative new features and platforms that make transportation easier for everyone.
Model 1 and Ride
Model 1 Leads the way with RiDE electric school buses
At Model 1, we take pride in being an industry pioneer. This philosophy perfectly aligns with electric school bus manufacturer RIDE’s initiative of driving the future. It is in the spirit of this shared vision that a partnership between Model 1 and RIDE was forged. With over 60,000 zero-emission school buses deployed worldwide, RIDE defines leading the way, making their distribution through Model 1 a natural fit.
Model 1 and ARBOC
NATIONWIDE DISTRIBUTION FOR AMERICA’S LOW-FLOOR BUS LEADER
When ARBOC designed an entirely new class of cutaway lightweight buses, we jumped at the chance to make them available at Model 1 dealerships across the country. ARBOC’s commitment to low-floor designs accessible by ramp vs. lift has made them an in-demand industry favorite. And as a go-to for innovative ADA transportation options, Model 1 stands as a key distributor for ARBOC low-floor cutaways and Equess buses.
Model 1 and MARCOPOLO
bringing world-class marcopolo luxury to the U.S.
Keeping with our tradition of leading the way, Model 1 is proud to be the first distributor to introduce vehicles from Marcopolo to the North American market. Although the Marcopolo name might be somewhat unfamiliar here in the U.S., as the world’s largest bus manufacturer, Marcopolo is no stranger to the transit industry. We’re excited to bring these world-class luxury buses to a location near you.
featured COLLABORATIONS
It’s not just about partnering with companies who share the same values as us at Model 1. It’s also about helping create solutions for unmet needs in the commercial vehicle marketplace. Browse our key collaborations for real-world examples of what a partnership with Model 1 can produce.
- Customized Community E-Transit
- Exclusive ADA-Approved E-Transit
- Air Ride Suspension Upfitting
- Easy-mount Air Purification
Model 1 and FOREST RIVER
solving supply chain issues with e-transit
Supply chain issues wreak havoc on commercial transit needs. That’s why Model 1 partnered with Forest River to customize Ford E-Transit Vans for community transit and keep a large inventory in stock.
Model 1, FOREST RIVER, Q’STRAINT, BRAUNABILITY, AND FREEDMAN SEATING
AN EXCLUSIVELY DESIGNed ADA-APPROVED E-TRANSIT VEHICLE
When Model 1 saw a need for a fully validated, totally unique E-Transit passenger van – unlike anything offered at the time – we brought in partners who could make sure it was done right. The end result? A certified electric vehicle with aluminum track flooring, reconfigurable rear seats, ADA-approved wheelchair positions, tie downs, a rear power lift, and more.
Model 1 and auto-flex
affordable air ride suspension for commercial fleets
The Model 1 and Auto-Flex relationship helps commercial fleets deliver a smoother ride for passengers and sensitive cargo. All with zero Ford OEM chassis modification required and easy upfitting/installation at a Model 1 location.
Model 1, plasma air, and proair
easy-mount air purification for transit vehicles
As another way to help reduce the spread of airborne viruses among passengers in a post-pandemic world, Model 1, Plasma Air, and ProAir collaborated to create new, easy-to-mount air purifying units for buses, shuttles, and public transit vehicles.
Our Partners
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of this program. Model 1’s commitment to safety and quality are perfectly in sync with our mission to deliver the safest passenger seats in the market. When someone rides in one of these vans, they know no corners have been cut.”
– Dan Cohen, President, Freedman Seating
“Model 1 is the perfect partner for us to work with to scale our operations in the U.S. Their existing infrastructure gives us access to an expansive and well-trusted sales and service network right out of the gate and sets us up in the best way possible to be successful as we build our presence here.”
– Stefan Krause, CEO and Chairman, B–ON
“Forest River is thrilled to see Model 1’s continued dedication to electric vehicles, and we’re excited to deliver the first 1,000 E-Transit vans.”
– David Wright, President, Forest River
INSPIRED TO COLLABORATE?
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